Article By: S. Vijayakumari, Retd. Educationist, Virugambakkam.
In the month of Margazhi, waking up before sunrise, taking a bath and reciting the Divine Namas once, is equivalent to chanting the Namas a million times at other times.
It was suggested that women should wake up early and draw rangolis in front of their houses.
Performing bhajans on the streets during Margazhi is a traditional practice for all age groups including men, women, young people, old people and children. The scientific belief that the ozone layer is closer to the earth this month is the basis for these practices.
On the full moon day of Tiruvadhirai Nakshatra in the month of Margazhi, Shiva temples usually celebrate Arudra darshan. Important religious days like Hanuman Jayanti and Vaikunda Ekadasi are also celebrated in this month. Margazhi month is also famous for singing Thirupavai recited by Sri Andal and Thiruvembavai recited by Manikkavasakar. To receive God’s eternal blessings, it is advised that one wakes up early in the morning, lights a lamp, and worships during Margazhi.